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Staff Picks: Fall Edition

Fun Fun Fun Fest, Nov. 6-8
Starting in 2006, it did not take long for this indie music festival to gain popularity. Now, the weekend long event is not only known for the wide range of music genre’s it hosts but also the food, comedy and art experiences it has to offer. The prices are also reasonable. A single day pass is $89 and a three day pass is $199. Check out their website to see the line-up and purchase tickets: http://funfunfunfest.com/

The Great Pumpkin Patch – Barton Hills Farm
One of the biggest pumpkin patches in the state. The theme this year is the Great Maze. There is also live music, Texas barbecue, games and of course, photo opportunities. Go with your friends and feel like a kid again. http://bartonhillfarms.com/pumpkin-patch/

The House of Torment
If are into thrill, this Austin haunted house experience is for you. The experience begins as soon as you get in line where you will be entertained by monsters and creatures. It is described as more of a real-life horror movie than a haunted house. There also new attractions this year with the Dead End District and Laughterhouse.

Main Lawn – St. Edward’s University
This luscious open space is ideal for lounging with friends or reading a book solo. Like most, the natural beauty of the campus has stolen our heart and the fall season is great time to take advantage of the scenery.

WATCH

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2
With the first book published in 2008, the story of a dystopian society and the zest of Katniss Everdeen, the story’s protagonist, grabbed the attention of readers and movie-goers alike. Eight years later, it still does. Part one left viewers with their mouths wide opened as Peeta Mellark, Katniss’ love interest, attacks her after being rescued from the Capitol. Now, the final piece to the puzzle of Suzanne King’s Hunger Games trilogy, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 is coming out this November as we find out if the tyrannical President Snow will rule or be overthrown by the rebellion.

Suffragette
If you love Meryl Streep (as we all should), she is starring in the movie Suffragette alongside Academy Award nominees Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter. The film is inspired by the true events of the struggle for women’s rights and gender equality in 20-th century Britain.

Movie in the Park: Beetlejuice, Casper, The Dark Knight
The Austin Parks Foundation and the Alamo Drafthouse are presenting Beetlejuice in their Movies in the Park series this fall. It is open and free to the public and in the heart of the city at Republic Square Park.

EAT

Caramel Apple Spice – Jo’s
This warm, sweet apple cider drink is pure happiness in a cup. There is not much else to say except, get it, try it and tell them New Literati sent you.

Belgian Chocolate – Amy’s Ice cream
Okay, so fall is not exactly ice cream weather. That said, it there is no bad time for a scoop. With the unfortunate closing of the Amy’s Ice Cream storefront across from St. Edward’s on October 25, due to rent increase, take a walk over and find out what all the hype is out (if you have not already). It is hard to make something simple so decadent, but Amy’s does it and well. The Belgian chocolate, among their other flavors, is a must-have.

Pumpkin Pancakes – Kerbey Lane
Pumpkin, pumpkin, pumpkin pancakes. The 24-hour café has brought in this seasonal pancake that is guaranteed to please. It is topped with a warm cinnamon drizzle that takes the breakfast cake to new heights – must try.

WEAR

Sweaters
*Cues Sweater Weather by the Neighbourhood. You can never go wrong with a sweater during the fall and there is no starting now. Light sweaters, bright sweaters, high-low, knit, none are off limits. If you are considered about the price that can come with a quality sweater, check out the Family Thrift Store off the corner of Oltorf and South Congress. They cater to a wide range of sizes and style and for more than fifty-percent off of retail prices.

Cool Kicks
Slip-on sneakers are the grab and go footwear of the fall season. Pair with jeans, skirts, dresses to give your overall look a street wear vibe (plus great for walking and keeping toes warm).

Ripped Denim
Blue jeans are, and have been, the go to piece for the cooler months since Levi Strauss brought them over to America in 1853. They can withstand wear and tear and pair with any top essentially. Try reviving your denim style by choosing a slightly distressed pair or take to YouTube for tips on how to distress the ones you have at home, in the back of your closet, that are dying for a face-lift.